High school guidance counselors and independent college consultants often talk with students about finding colleges that are good “fits” for them. The message behind “fit” is that students should choose colleges where they will be challenged academically, engaged in extracurricular activities, and happy socially rather...
Many high school seniors have just submitted their early applications. While exciting, this can also be anxiety producing - hitting “submit” for the first time means letting go of the application and turning the process over to colleges. It’s impossible to eliminate all stress and...
In the next few weeks, students will decide whether to apply to colleges “early.” This can be a confusing decision, so to help cut through the chatter here are some basics that can help students and families clarify whether an early option is the right...
Paying for college may be my least favorite topic in college admissions, but it may also be the most important. When finding colleges that are good fits for my students, we always address affordability – because a college that is a great academic and social...
As the summer turns to fall, and high school students are fully immersed in classes and activities, parents often ask what their students should be doing “for college” at each grade level. The first two years of high school are an important time for students. Students...
Recently, the mother of one of my students casually mentioned that her child intended to apply to 20 colleges. My eyes widened, but luckily, I caught myself before blurting out, “no, that’s too many!” So, how many colleges should a student apply to? Before determining how...
Tackling the Common App personal statement can be the most daunting part of the college admissions process, even for the most talented writers. Many parents and students find it helpful to work with an essay writing coach or college consultant, either in one-on-one sessions or...
It’s every parent’s worst nightmare to get the call that their child is in the hospital emergency room. But imagine how helpless you’d feel if your college-aged child is having a medical emergency and you’re denied access to their information? Save yourself the heartache now...
Parents and students sometimes wonder whether the high price of paying for college is worth it - in economic terms, is there a return on investment? Comprehensive research out of Georgetown University shows that a bachelor's degree from a private university is a great investment...
College Admissions Forums Applying to college can be such an overwhelming process that parents and students sometimes do not know where to turn for advice. One source of information are forums such as Quora and Reddit, where students can get both professional and personal advice. Campus...